Bill > HB1979

This bill amends the existing law (RCW 48.43.780) to address the cost of inhalers and epinephrine autoinjectors. Specifically, it: 1. Caps the out-of-pocket cost for enrollees of health plans at $35 per 30-day supply for at least one covered inhaled corticosteroid and one covered inhaled corticosteroid combination for the treatment of asthma, as well as for at least one covered epinephrine autoinjector product containing two autoinjectors for the treatment of allergic reactions. These prescription drugs must be covered without being subject to a deductible, and any cost-sharing paid by the enrollee must be applied towards their deductible obligation. 2. Provides exceptions for health plans offered as qualifying plans for health savings accounts, allowing the health carrier to set the cost-sharing at the minimum level necessary to preserve the enrollee's ability to claim tax-exempt contributions and withdrawals from their health savings account. 3. Requires the Office of the Insurance Commissioner to provide written notice of any changes in Internal Revenue Service guidance regarding the prescription drugs covered under this section. 4. Allows health plans to apply drug utilization management strategies to the prescription drugs covered under the new provisions.